The interplay among desire, authenticity, and societal moral expectations is a complex topic that has been explored extensively within the field of bisexual relational ethics. Bisexuals must navigate their own desires, while also trying to be true to themselves and adhere to society's moral standards regarding sexuality. This can lead to tensions and challenges that affect various aspects of bisexuals' lives, including personal identity, romantic relationships, and social interactions. In this article, I will explore some of these tensions and how they may impact bisexuals and those who are involved in intimate relationships with them.
Desire:
Desire plays an important role in shaping bisexuals' behavior and attraction towards others.
It can be difficult for bisexuals to reconcile their desires with societal norms around monogamy and exclusivity. Some bisexuals may feel pressure to choose between different partners or to suppress their attractions altogether, which can lead to feelings of confusion, shame, and guilt. Others may engage in multiple relationships simultaneously, leading to jealousy, conflict, and communication breakdowns.
Bisexuals may face discrimination from both straight and queer communities, which can further complicate matters.
Authenticity:
Authenticity is another crucial aspect of bisexual relational ethics. It refers to being true to oneself and expressing one's genuine desires and beliefs without fear or hesitation.
Bisexuals may struggle with authenticity due to internalized biphobia, shame, or a desire to conform to societal expectations. They may hide their bisexuality out of fear of judgment or rejection, which can create a sense of disconnection and self-doubt. This can make it hard for bisexuals to find supportive, accepting partners or to build healthy, fulfilling romantic relationships.
Societal Moral Expectations:
Society has certain moral standards regarding sexuality that bisexuals must navigate. These expectations often prioritize monogamy and exclusivity over other forms of relationship structure. Bisexuals who do not adhere to these standards may face criticism, stigma, and even legal consequences, such as divorce proceedings or loss of child custody. This can add additional stress and anxiety to an already difficult situation.
The tensions between desire, authenticity, and societal moral expectations are significant challenges faced by bisexuals in all aspects of their lives. While there is no single solution to these complex issues, bisexuals can seek support from friends, family members, and community organizations, as well as engage in self-reflection and personal growth to better understand their needs and desires. By doing so, they can develop strong, meaningful relationships based on mutual respect, honesty, and acceptance.
What tensions arise in bisexual relational ethics between desire, authenticity, and societal moral expectations?
The tension arises when bisexual individuals struggle with their sexual identity and have difficulty reconciling it with society's moral expectations. Bisexuality is often stigmatized and not widely accepted as a valid form of expression by many people, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and confusion within the individual. This can create significant challenges for bisexual individuals in forming meaningful relationships with others who may not understand or support them.